Rogers Android Dream (G1)

June 2

Android programming

Neat Android apps

Switching from Fido to Rogers Mobile

Specs

Weight: 158g

Questions

Can sketch accurately on screen? - sort of, not as accurate as finger nail/stylus

Advantages

• More open source
• Java(ish)-based
• Compass
• Autofocus camera
• GMote - use it as a mouse/keyboard for Windows/Linux http://androidcommunity.com/forums/107205-post38.html
• Just one checkbox to install non-official apps

Possibilities

• Multi-touch http://lukehutch.wordpress.com/2009/01/25/get-multi-touch-support-on-your-t-mobile-g1-today/
• Hacking - http://phandroid.com/2009/05/08/g1-specs-leak-could-mean-developer-hacking-heaven/ For example, can you currently do TV Out with your G1? Nope. But did you know that the chip in the G1 DOES allow for TV out and it simply isn’t wired? Now you do. Access to these specs will allow the hacking geniuses of the world (nods to XDA Devs) to enable things like USB-OTG, USB-HOST, TV-OUT, Bootloader Hacks and Radio Hacking.
  • USB host mode - http://code.google.com/p/android/issues/detail?id=738

With all this potential, it would be really nice if Android and the hrdware were really open. Maybe if 10000 people kicked in $100 each, it could be explored.

Drawbacks

• No call recorder http://code.google.com/p/android/issues/detail?id=2117
• Clunky hardware, "chin" interferes with keyboard
• no LED
• Poor camera quality
• "Special" headphone connector (required dongle)
• Can't listen to wired headphones and charge at the same time
• Battery life?!??!?!!! http://gizmodo.com/5132895/seidio-2600-mah-jumbo-battery-pack-turns-your-g1-morbidly-obese
• No light sensor, have to adjust between battery consumption and being able to see in sunlight

Accessories

http://www.amazon.com/Available-Touch-Through-T-Mobile-Sensitive-Protector/dp/B001KK941K/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top